"THE SIREN"

A. COLVILLE "DOC" WILSON OCT. 10, 1912-MARCH 17, 1990

The death of "Doc" Wilson has left a large void in the organization we know as the Illinois Fire and Police Commissioners Association. But, far more importantly, Doc's passing has left a personal emptiness in those of us who have known him, grew to respect him, and who also loved him.

To say that "Doc" lived a full life would certainly be an understatement. Sometimes he seemed to be even larger than life, overcoming many personal difficulties, especially in these past few years. His influence on others did not come through intimidation or personal dominance, but through quiet example and personal service.

Born and raised in New York City, "Doc" attended Syracuse University, married, raised two sons Bruce and Gary and a daughter Nancy, who survive him. He also leaves a brother, Winfield, and three grandchildren. We're sure that all of his family will miss him greatly.

Throughout his "working life" Doc represented the New York precious metals firm of Handy and Harmon, and for many years served as their Mid-West District Manager.

Most of us, however, know "Doc" Wilson from the service he has given throughout his life; service to help make our communities and our state of Illinois a more peaceful and safe place to live, to work, and to raise our families.

"Doc" loved his city of Des Plaines, serving that community in various capacities during his more than forty years there. Most notably he served as the Chairman of the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners of Des Plaines. Almost every police officer and firefighter, serving that community, received their appointment during Doc's tenure on the Board. Being present at the Memorial Service at the Oehler Funeral Home on March 20, 1990, one could feel the deep regard and affection that the community held for Doc.

"Doc" Wilson's involvement with the Illinois Fire and Police Commissioners Association is also a long and illustrious one. He served on numerous committees and was a past President and Director of the association. His input and impact on our association cannot be measured so much by Doc's years of service, but by the involvement and example he has given to us all.

Most state commissioners know Doc from his chairmanship of the association's Seminar Committee. Doc's seminars were always developed so that, as Doc said, . . . "we can help commissioners become more knowledgeable and effective regarding their responsibilities." He certainly did his job well, as most commissioners left the seminars feeling that they could now return to their communities as a more informed commissioner.

On a closing and personal note, please allow me to relate a short story regarding the first time "Doc" and I met. We first met on the occasion of my appointment to, and first meeting with, the executive committee of the Ill. Fire and Police Commissioners Association. Upon the completion of the meeting, "Doc" came over to me to introduce himself. Always the gentleman, he welcomed me warmly and I could "feel" the sincerity in his words. Suddenly, he reached to his lapel and removed his Association "Star". He handed his star to me and asked that I please take it, always remembering that . . . "we serve in this association in order to serve others." I will always remember that first meeting, his warm gesture, and his poignant words which I will try to emulate.

So long "Doc"! . . . Nice Job!

This is Ralph Loritz turning "The Siren" off. •

July 1990 / Illinois Municipal Review / Page 19